West Ham finally gave their fans something to cheer about last weekend after a dreadful start to the season, producing a convincing 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá, and Callum Wilson all found the net, with Paquetá’s strike in particular a moment to savour. After scoring his third goal of the campaign, the Brazilian kissed the badge on his shirt with passion — a clear message to the fans that he’s staying put despite strong interest from Aston Villa.
For Graham Potter, keeping hold of his talisman is a huge boost.
But while Paquetá stole the headlines, one player who wasn’t involved at all was Guido Rodríguez. And now, it looks like his time in east London could be cut short.
Rodríguez’s Agent Flies to Spain
According to Spanish journalist Manu de Olmedo, the agent of West Ham midfielder Guido Rodríguez has flown to Seville in anticipation of a potential deadline day move.
The 31-year-old Argentine is wanted by Real Betis, the club he previously starred for before joining the Hammers on a free transfer earlier this summer. A return to Spain would reportedly suit Rodríguez, who has endured a difficult start to life at the London Stadium.
Once described as a “defensive monster” by European football analyst Marcus Bring, Rodríguez built his reputation in La Liga as one of the best ball-winners in Spain.
However, his West Ham spell has so far been forgettable, and with Potter having already bolstered midfield options through Mateus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa, questions remain over just how much of a role Rodríguez will play if he stays.
For West Ham, a sale might make sense — freeing up wages, streamlining Potter’s squad, and moving on a player who, despite his pedigree, hasn’t yet made the impact fans hoped for. If Betis come calling on deadline day, this could be one of those transfers that suits all parties.
